Lion's Paw Scallop (also known as Nodipecten)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Nodipecten, Species: Nodipecten nodosus · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve (two-shelled), shell fragment, fan-shaped
Species
Nodipecten nodosus
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled), shell fragment, fan-shaped
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
The visible fragment is approximately 1 to 1.5 inches across. Whole adults of this species typically range from 3 to 6 inches.
Color & Pattern
Rich shades of reddish-orange, brownish-orange, and earthy tan, featuring a grid-like texture formed by radiating ribs and concentric growth lines. The colors appear natural and well-preserved.
Rarity
Uncommon as whole beach specimens, though shell fragments are occasionally found depending on the locality.
Habitat
Marine environment, typically found in shallow subtidal waters attached to hard substrates or resting on coarse sand and coral rubble.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina through the Caribbean down to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico.
Description
This is a fragment of a striking bivalve shell featuring prominent, rounded radial ribs and a strong grid-like reticulated pattern. The sculpture includes distinctive nodes or scales along the ribs, characteristic of the Nodipecten genus, giving it a robust and highly textured surface.
Key Features
Prominent rounded radial ribs, nodular projections along the ribs, and a distinct cancellate (grid-like) surface texture.
Collector Value
Low value due to being a fragment, though whole gem-quality Lion's Paw specimens can command high prices among collectors due to their beauty and vibrant coloration.
Condition Notes
This is a worn shell fragment rather than an intact valve. The edges show breakage, but the surface sculpture and coloration are clearly identifiable. Collectibility grade: Poor (fragment only, study specimen).
Interesting Facts
Lion's Paws are prized by collectors for their vibrant colors and heavy, knobby texture. Unlike many other scallops, they are relatively sedentary adults that often cement themselves or anchor firmly using byssal threads.
Ecological Role
Scallops act as active filter feeders, helping to maintain water clarity, and serve as an important food source for various marine predators including rays, sea stars, and carnivorous gastropods.
Similar Species
Atlantic calico scallop (Argopecten gibbus) and Pacific Lion's Paw (Nodipecten subnodosus), which can be distinguished by differences in geographic origin, size, and nodule configuration.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along high-energy tropical and subtropical beaches, near coral reefs, or among shell lines after heavy storms when fragments and occasional whole valves wash ashore.